Tombstone, Arizona

Environment and Sustainability

Tombstone is located in the Sonoran Desert and has a semi-arid climate. The city is committed to preserving its natural environment and historical heritage. Sustainability efforts in Tombstone can be found on the city’s official website: http://www.cityoftombstone.com/ 

Town Awards and Recognition

Tombstone has been recognized for its historical significance and preservation efforts. In 1961, it was designated a National Historic Landmark District by the U.S. government.

Climate

The climate in Tombstone is characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The average high temperature in July is around 94°F (34°C), while the average low temperature in January is around 37°F (3°C). The city receives approximately 15 inches of precipitation annually, with most of it occurring during the monsoon season in July and August.

Quality of Life

Tombstone offers a unique quality of life, with its rich history, outdoor recreational opportunities, and small-town atmosphere. The city is a popular destination for tourists and history buffs, providing a variety of attractions and entertainment options.

Accommodations

Tombstone offers a range of accommodations, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, guesthouses, and vacation rentals. Some popular options include:

– Tombstone Grand Hotel
– Larian Motel
– Budget Host Inn

Resorts

While there are no large resorts in Tombstone, visitors can still find comfortable lodging options in the surrounding area, such as the nearby cities of Bisbee and Sierra Vista.

Camping

Camping opportunities near Tombstone include the Tombstone RV Park & Campground and the Stampede RV Park. More information about camping options can be found at:

– https://tombstone-rvpark.com/
– https://www.stampedervpark.com/

RV Resorts

Tombstone RV Park & Campground and Stampede RV Park both cater to RV travelers, offering full hookups, restrooms, and other amenities.

Attractions

Tombstone offers a variety of attractions related to its Wild West history, including:

– The O.K. Corral: Site of the famous gunfight and daily reenactments
– Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park: Preserved courthouse that now serves as a museum
– Boothill Graveyard: Historic cemetery

Points of Interest

Some points of interest in and around Tombstone include:

– The Bird Cage Theatre: A famous saloon, gambling hall, and theater from the 1880s
– The Rose Tree Museum: Home to the world’s largest rosebush
– The Tombstone Epitaph: The city’s historic newspaper, still in operation today

Things to do

Visitors to Tombstone can experience its history through reenactments, stagecoach rides, and guided tours. Other activities include shopping for souvenirs, dining at local restaurants, and exploring the surrounding desert landscape.

Cultural Centers

Tombstone does not have a dedicated cultural center, but its historic downtown area serves as a hub for cultural activities and events.

Dining and Nightlife

Tombstone offers a variety of dining options, including saloons, steakhouses, and cafes, reflecting its Old West heritage. Nightlife in the city is relatively quiet, with a few bars and live music venues available.

Off-road trips

Off-road trips around Tombstone can include exploring nearby ghost towns, visiting old mines, and discovering the natural beauty of the surrounding desert.

Horseback riding

Horseback riding is a popular activity in Tombstone, with several outfitters offering guided trail rides and lessons. One option is the Tombstone Monument Ranch, which provides a variety of riding experiences for all skill levels.

Hiking

Hiking opportunities near Tombstone include the Coronado National Forest and the nearby Dragoon Mountains.

Scenic Drives

Scenic drives around Tombstone can include the historic Ghost Town Trail, which passes through several abandoned mining towns, and the San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area.

Art and Culture

Tombstone’s art and culture scene focuses on its Wild West history, with museums, reenactments, and historic sites providing a glimpse into the past.

Events and Festivals

Tombstone hosts several events and festivals throughout the year, including:

– Wyatt Earp Days
– Helldorado Days
– Vigilante Days

Clubs and Organizations

Tombstone has a number of social and service clubs, including the TombstoneLions Club and American Legion. More information about local clubs and organizations can be found on the city’s official website: http://www.cityoftombstone.com/

Dog Parks and Golf Courses

Tombstone does not have a dedicated dog park or golf course. The nearest golf course is the Mountain View Golf Course in Fort Huachuca, approximately 25 miles away.

Outdoor Activities and Sports

In addition to hiking, horseback riding, and off-roading, Tombstone offers opportunities for birdwatching, stargazing, and exploring the surrounding natural areas.

Parks and Playgrounds

Tombstone has several parks and playgrounds, including the Tombstone City Park and the Schieffelin Monument Park.

Adult and Continuing Education

Tombstone does not have a dedicated adult education center. However, nearby colleges and universities, such as Cochise College in Sierra Vista, offer adult and continuing education opportunities.

Educational Opportunities

Tombstone is served by the Tombstone Unified School District, which includes:

– Walter J. Meyer Elementary School
– Tombstone High School

Preschools and Childcare

Tombstone offers a few preschool and childcare options, including the Little Lambs Preschool and the Tombstone Community Preschool.

Private Schools

There are no private schools located within Tombstone. The nearest private schools are in Sierra Vista, such as All Saints Catholic School and Veritas Christian Community School.

School Districts

Tombstone is served by the Tombstone Unified School District: https://www.tombstone.k12.az.us/

Libraries

The Tombstone City Library serves the community with a collection of books, periodicals, and other resources: http://www.tombstonelibrary.org/

Economy

Tombstone’s economy is primarily driven by tourism, with visitors coming to experience its rich history and Old West atmosphere. Other industries include retail, services, and agriculture.

Large Employers

There are no large employers in Tombstone, as the local economy is mainly composed of small businesses related to tourism and services.

History before 1850

The area around Tombstone was inhabited by Native American tribes, such as the Chiricahua Apaches, long before European settlers arrived. The first European contact with the area was likely through Spanish explorers in the late 17th century.

History after 1850

Tombstone was founded in 1877 by prospector Ed Schieffelin, who discovered silver in the area. The city quickly grew as a mining boomtown and became notorious for its lawlessness and violence. Key historical events include the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral in 1881 and the subsequent Earp Vendetta Ride. The city’s population declined after the mines were depleted, but it has since reinvented itself as a tourist destination.

Key Historic Events and Milestones

– 1877: Ed Schieffelin discovers silver, leading to the founding of Tombstone
– 1881: The Gunfight at the O.K. Corral takes place
– 1882: The Earp Vendetta Ride occurs
– 1961: Tombstone is designated a National Historic Landmark District

Historic Districts

Tombstone’s historic district includes the downtown area and many well-preserved buildings from the city’s boomtown era.

Historical Sites

Key historical sites in Tombstone include the O.K. Corral, Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park, Boothill Graveyard, and the Bird Cage Theatre.

Museums

Tombstone has several museums that showcase its history, including the Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park, the Rose Tree Museum, and the Tombstone Epitaph Museum.

Profiles of Notable Figures

Notable figures from Tombstone’s history include Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday, Virgil Earp, and Morgan Earp, all of whom played roles in the events surrounding the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral.

Town History Timeline

– 1877: Ed Schieffelin discovers silver and founds Tombstone
– 1881: The Gunfight at the O.K. Corral takes place
– 1882: The Earp Vendetta Ride occurs
– 1961: Tombstone is designated a National Historic Landmark District

Real Estate

Tombstone’s real estate market includes single-family homes, townhomes, and land for sale. The city does not have any large planned communities or retirement communities.

Transportation

Tombstone is located approximately 70 miles southeast of Tucson and 170 miles southeast of Phoenix. The city is accessible by car via State Route 80. There is no public transportation system in Tombstone, but the walkable downtown area makes it easy to explore on foot.

Shopping and Retail

Tombstone offers a variety of shopping opportunities, primarily focusing on souvenirs, antiques, and Western-themed items. The historic downtown area is home to many unique shops, including:

– Silver Hills Trading Co.
– The Shady Lady’s Closet
– Miner’s Candle and Mercantile

Sports and Recreation

Tombstone provides a range of outdoor sports and recreational activities, including hiking, horseback riding, birdwatching, and stargazing. The city’s parks and playgrounds, such as Tombstone City Park and Schieffelin Monument Park, also offer spaces for outdoor recreation.

Police Department

The Tombstone Marshal’s Office is responsible for law enforcement and public safety within the city. More information can be found on the city’s official website: http://www.cityoftombstone.com/marshal.html

Government Structure and Services

Tombstone operates under a council-manager form of government, with a mayor and city council overseeing the city manager. The city provides various services to residents, including water and sewer, parks and recreation, and public safety. More information about the city’s government and services can be found at: http://www.cityoftombstone.com/

Fire Department

The Tombstone Volunteer Fire Department is responsible for fire protection and emergency medical services in the city. More information can be found on the city’s official website: County Government

Tombstone is located in Cochise County, Arizona. The county government is responsible for providing various services, such as property assessment, tax collection, and planning and zoning. More information about Cochise County can be found at: https://www.cochise.az.gov/

Utilities

Utilities in Tombstone are provided by various companies and agencies. Some of the primary providers are:

– Electricity: Sulphur Springs Valley Electric Cooperative 
– Water and Sewer: City of Tombstone 
– Natural Gas: Southwest Gas 
– Telecommunications: Various providers, including CenturyLink and Cox Communications

Nearby Cities and Towns

Tombstone is surrounded by several other cities and towns that offer additional amenities and attractions. Some nearby communities include:

– Sierra Vista: Located approximately 25 miles northwest of Tombstone, Sierra Vista is a larger city with shopping centers, restaurants, and medical facilities.
– Bisbee: A historic mining town located about 23 miles southeast of Tombstone, Bisbee is known for its vibrant arts scene, unique architecture, and numerous galleries and shops.

Local Media

Tombstone is served by a few local media outlets, including:

– The Tombstone News: A weekly newspaper that covers local news and events 
– KCTR 93.5 FM: A community radio station broadcasting a variety of music, news, and talk programs

City Social Media

Stay up-to-date with the latest happenings in Tombstone by following the city’s social media accounts:

– Facebook: 
– Twitter: 

Nearby Natural Attractions

Tombstone is located in a region rich in natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Some of the nearby natural attractions include:

– Chiricahua National Monument: A unique landscape of towering rock pinnacles, about 69 miles southeast of Tombstone. The monument offers hiking trails, camping, and incredible views.
– Coronado National Forest: Encompassing nearly 1.8 million acres, this national forest offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and birdwatching. The forest is divided into several districts, with the closest being the Sierra Vista Ranger District. 
– Ramsey Canyon Preserve: A nature preserve operated by The Nature Conservancy, located about 30 miles west of Tombstone. The preserve is known for its diverse bird species and offers several hiking trails. 

Local Organizations and Clubs

Tombstone is home to a variety of clubs and organizations that cater to various interests and hobbies. Some examples include:

– Tombstone Art Gallery: A local art gallery that showcases the work of regional artists and offers workshops and events. 
– Tombstone Garden Club: A group of gardening enthusiasts who aim to beautify Tombstone through various projects and initiatives. 
– Tombstone Small Animal Shelter: A non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and rehoming abandoned or homeless animals in the Tombstone area.

Annual Events and Celebrations

Tombstone hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating its rich history and vibrant community spirit. Some of the popular annual events include:

– Wyatt Earp Days: A three-day event held in May, featuring gunfight reenactments, a chili cook-off, and various Old West-themed activities. 
– Helldorado Days: Held in October, this event commemorates the infamous gunfight at the O.K. Corral with parades, street entertainment, and living history performances. 
– Tombstone Vigilante Days: A weekend event held in August, featuring gunfight reenactments, street entertainment, and a variety of family-friendly activities.

Wine and Craft Breweries

The region surrounding Tombstone is home to several wineries and craft breweries, perfect for those looking to sample local flavors. Some notable establishments include:

– Silver Strike Winery: A local winery in Tombstone offering tastings and a selection of Arizona-made wines. 
– Tombstone Brewing Company: A craft brewery located in Tombstone, offering a variety of beers on tap and a tasting room. 

Animal Services and Pet Adoption

Tombstone residents can access animal services and pet adoption resources through the following organizations:

– Tombstone Small Animal Shelter: A local non-profit organization that provides shelter, care, and adoption services for stray and homeless pets in the Tombstone area. 
– Cochise County Humane Society: An organization dedicated to the welfare of animals in Cochise County, offering pet adoption services, spay/neuter programs, and pet food assistance.

Additional Resources

For more information about the community of Tombstone, visit the following websites:

1. City of Tombstone Official Website: 
2. Tombstone Chamber of Commerce: 
3. Cochise County Official Website: 

The information provided offers a comprehensive overview of the Tombstone community, covering various aspects of life, history, and resources available to residents and visitors alike.

Tombstone, Arizona, is a historic town with a rich history, vibrant arts and culture scene, and a variety of recreational activities. The community offers a high quality of life, complete with educational opportunities, medical facilities, and various housing options. Tombstone is close to other cities, such as Bisbee, Sierra Vista, and Benson, which provide additional attractions and amenities. The town is home to several annual events, museums, and historical sites. Residents can access essential services and utilities, as well as community resources like senior centers, youth programs, and volunteer organizations. Tombstone’s location near Phoenix and Tucson provides convenient access to larger urban centers, while its picturesque setting offers a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, horseback riding, and scenic drives.